Jonathan O’Brien TD calls for increased resources for MABS in Cork

Sinn Féin TD Jonathan O’Brien has condemned the length of waiting lists for Money Advice and Budgeting Services that people in Cork are being faced with.

Speaking following information received by Sinn Féin this week, the party’s Cork North Central TD said:

“There is currently a waiting list in excess of 6 weeks for an appointment with the Money Advice and Budgeting Service which is a part of the Citizens Information Board.

“Many of the people who are seeking help from MABS do so because they are in serious debt and are on very low incomes or living on social welfare payments.

“It is insufficient for the Minister to suggest that people can use the self-help materials from MABS to sort out their problems.

“Over six weeks is too long to wait, when people are getting into worse arrears.

“When people decide to approach MABS they are more often than not in a desperate place. For most, they’ve gone beyond accessing self-help guidelines on the web or using a phone service. They need to sit down with someone who will thoughtfully and patiently explain the situation to them and help them process their options.

“Cork city has an above average waiting list for MABS and the Minister should, as a matter of urgency, ensure that the service is resourced effectively to cater for demand.”